11 Jan Transforming a Notting Hill Studio Apartment
Location: Notting Hill, W11
Project Type: Full Refurbishment & Interior Reconfiguration
Client: Private homeowner
Duration: 12 weeks
Services: Design & Build, Structural Reconfiguration, Bespoke Joinery, Kitchen & Bathroom Installation, Complete Interior Fit-Out
Introduction
In Prime Central London, space is the ultimate luxury—especially in a fashionable neighbourhood like Notting Hill. Our client came to us with a compact, outdated studio apartment that lacked functionality, storage, and modern appeal. The goal? Transform a single-room studio into a highly efficient, elegant living space that feels twice its actual size.
This case study showcases how our design-and-build team reimagined the property, delivering a luxurious, high-value home tailored to both modern living and Notting Hill’s signature charm.
The Challenge: Small Space, Big Vision
While Notting Hill offers character, charm, and desirable postcodes, many period properties—especially studios—come with limitations:
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Poor use of space
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Low natural light due to original layouts
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Tired kitchens and bathrooms
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Limited storage solutions
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Restrictive structural elements common in period buildings
Our brief was clear:
Maximise the footprint, create distinct zones for living and sleeping, and bring a high-end finish to every corner.
Our Approach: Intelligent Design Meets Craftsmanship
1. Reconfiguring the Layout for Modern Living
The first major change was rethinking the floor plan. Instead of one open room, we introduced a semi-partitioned sleeping area using bespoke joinery that doubles as hidden storage. This allowed the client to enjoy the feel of a one-bed apartment without reducing openness or natural light.
Key improvements included:
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Creating a dedicated living area with integrated lighting
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Designing a sleeping nook using custom oak joinery
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Relocating the kitchen to improve flow
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Widening internal transitions to make the space feel larger
2. Installing a High-End, Fully Integrated Kitchen
The old kitchenette was replaced with a sleek, minimalist kitchen, complete with:
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Integrated Miele appliances
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Bespoke cabinetry
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Quartz stone worktops
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Under-cabinet LED lighting
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Soft-close storage solutions designed to maximise space
Despite its size, the new kitchen offers the functionality and visual impact of a full-size build—perfect for modern city living.
3. A Spa-Inspired Bathroom Upgrade
Bathrooms in compact properties need thoughtful design. We created a luxury, hotel-style shower room featuring:
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Italian porcelain tiles
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Underfloor heating
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Walk-in glass shower
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Wall-hung vanity and concealed cistern to save space
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Ambient lighting and anti-fog mirror
This transformed a once cramped room into a calm, elegant sanctuary.
4. Bespoke Storage: The Secret to Studio Success
To avoid clutter—which can make a small home feel even smaller—we designed every piece of storage to measure, including:
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Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes
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A hidden utility cupboard
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Media unit with concealed cables
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Built-in bedside shelves
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Storage integrated within the room divider
These upgrades dramatically increased usable space while maintaining a clean, minimalist interior.
5. Finishing Touches: Light, Texture, and Colour
The visual theme balances luxury with tranquillity:
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A soft, neutral colour palette to enhance light
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Engineered oak flooring throughout
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Shadow-gap skirting for a contemporary finish
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Architectural lighting to zone and elevate the spaces
The result is a cohesive, beautifully finished interior that feels both modern and timeless.
The Result: A Studio Apartment Transformed into a Luxury London Home
What was once a dated studio is now a sophisticated Notting Hill living space that feels airy, organised, and effortlessly stylish. The reconfiguration not only improved day-to-day living but significantly increased the property’s value, appealing to both potential tenants and future buyers.
Key project outcomes:
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Space feels 40–50% larger due to zoning and design
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Storage increased by more than 150%
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Higher energy efficiency with upgraded systems
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Premium finishes that elevate the entire property
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A modern home perfectly suited to Notting Hill’s high-end market
Thinking of Refurbishing a Small Space in London?
Whether you own a studio in Notting Hill, a pied-à-terre in Kensington, or a compact apartment in Marylebone, our specialist design-and-build team can help you unlock the true potential of your property.
We bring over 70 years of combined experience across:
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Luxury refurbishments
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Structural alterations
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Bespoke joinery
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Kitchens, bathrooms, and full interior fit-outs
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Planning, permissions & project management
Get in touch today to arrange a consultation.